About

The Ontario Competitive Trail Riding Association is the provincial sanctioning body for the equestrian sports of Endurance Riding, Limited Distance, Set Speed, Competitive Trail Rides and Ride ‘n Tie. Our distance riding competitions are held throughout Ontario with between 10 to 15 events per season. OCTRA also sanctions Introductory or Beyond the Basics Clinics along with Trainng Rides every season. Check out our Ride Calendar for dates and locations of rides and clinics

We welcome all breeds of horses and all styles of riding (Western, English, Australian…) and riders of all ages. Please come out and join us!

“OCTRA’s roots started in 1968 following Di Lindblad’s “Rockwood TrailRiders” putting on the first competitive ride (as we knew them then). Nancy Beacon put on a 30-mile competitive ride up in Flesherton from Best’s Stable and the The Riding Canucks put on a 50-mile “Endurance Ride”. At the time we didn’t know any better and considered it to be endurance enough for anyone to ride let alone a horse go fifty miles! The ride started from the old Markham Fair Grounds in Markham and went through the Rouge Valley almost down to Highway 2. Our half-way stop was where the Zoo is now. Only one horse failed to finish and that was a mare who was thought to be in foal.” Di Regendanz

It was following these three rides that Nancy Beacon, Di Regandanz and Di Lindblad got together and formed OCTRA in 1968. And the rest is history. Since these beginnings OCTRA has grown to offer over a dozen competitions to over 300 members in Ontario and Eastern Quebec.

OCTRA welcomes all new riders–you do not need to be a member to compete in OCTRA sanctioned events although day memberships are required. As well, we are always happy to hear from potential volunteers and ride managers.

Vision statement:

Going the distance by planning, preparing and promoting the sport of distance riding while adhering to the highest standard of horse welfare at all times.

Mission Statement:

Our mission is to promote and be the voice for the disciplines of distance riding, (endurance, competitive trail riding, set speed and ride ‘n’ tie) in Ontario. By actively pursuing educational opportunities for the membership based on best practices and latest research the Association will ensure the highest standard of horse welfare when training and caring for the distance horse.

Statement of Values:

O

Our organization’s function is to support and promote distance riding in Ontario.

C

Competitive rides allowing for fun and enjoyment for all riders from beginner to advanced.

T

Training and educating based on best practices in caring for distance horses before, during and after competition.

R

Respecting and advocating of the preservation and development of natural courses and terrain suitable for equine trails.